Jesus suffered and died on the cross. Most of us know the story. But it is the words he said while nailed there that show his desire for our lives. Each time he spoke he revealed his heart and his love for us, his creation. Join us this Lenten season as we discover God’s heart for his people in our new preaching series Words from the Cross.

Study Questions

Jesus went through six trials, was beaten, mocked, and flogged. His life was traded for a criminal's. He was spit on and degraded. And then he was crucified. As his life was nearing it's end he called out, "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" What goes through your mind when you hear these words and try to truly picture what Jesus must have been going through physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually? What state do you think Jesus was in at that point?

As we study the bible, we can see that Jesus is actually quoting Psalm 22 as his life, and death, are fulfilling prophecy. He is crying out in desolation, yet still proclaims God is holy and worthy of all honor and praise. He points to God's truth in the bible as a way we can draw near to God when he feels far away. When you are going through difficult times in your life, do you cry out to God in your pain while also praising him for his greatness?

God offers us truths and promises that we can cling to in all situations. Peace, comfort, provision, love, and joy are just a few of the the things God promises us when we call on his name and draw near to him. To be able to know what God promises us, we need to have a relationship with God and know what he has revealed to us in the bible. This means we spend time in reading the bible, in prayer with God, and in fellowship with each other. Are you seeking a deeper relationship with God so that he can speak to you when you go through the trials of this life? Do you know what God promises you so that you can cling to his love? How can you draw nearer to him?

Additional scriptures to explore: Matthew 27:45-49, Psalm 22, 2 Corinthians 1:8-9, 2 Corinthians 12:7-9